I’ve lamented in my May 25 article that chip makers are churning out multicore processors like there’s no tomorrow. Although Intel and AMD’s intention of building processors induced by steroids hasn’t gone past the blueprint stage yet, the two companies promised that it will materialize sooner than many expect.
What For?
You might be surprised at the word that I’ve used to describe the dizzying pace at which chip producers are coming up with new and more powerful products. Of course, having a faster processor is not a development that anybody should grieve about. On the contract, it’s a news that everybody should welcome.
What is lamentable though, is that the extra speed might be rendered meaningless if programs would not be able to utilize the extra cores. Take note that nothing much has changed in the past few years in application design. Many software authors are still writing codes that recognize only single core processors.
With Software Makers in Mind
Though application authors admit that they are having a hard time in keeping up with their counterparts in the chip making industry, the latter isn’t in the mood to underscore the formers’ shortcomings. In fact, designers and scientists at Intel are lending a few of their cores (the natural, biological ones) to PC manufacturers and application developers in order for them to quickly adapt to the new trend in chip design.
Intel knows that arriving at the finish line first is practically meaningless. Throwing esoteric designs at software makers would certainly be of no help in their campaign to maximize the use and potentials of their multicore chips. This is the reason why the company has decided to retain the x86 design of its chips. X86 processing cores are the ones being used today in many of Intel’s chips and servers. Many software developers are already familiar with this design. Hence, Intel expects that they won’t be having a hard time catching up.
A Lending Hand
The world’s most popular chip producer might chew some of the meat that software makers should be swallowing. Ordinarily, the task of telling the chip on what processes should be done or prioritized falls on application developers. Intel wants to hasten up the shift to multicore computing by taking up the task of directing traffic that goes in and out of its processor, arranging operations according their importance. The company intends to do this by making cores share caches.
Not Perfect
While Intel is bullish that multicore chips would become the industry standard within half a decade’s time, it admits that there are still a number of issues that it has to be resolved in order to ensure that the chip would be able to shuffle processes without a glitch. One of the company’s major concerns is heat. At the speed by which multicore processors will transfer data, it would not be surprising that the temperature levels inside the CPU will rise several degrees higher. Intel is still looking for an efficient way to curb heat buildup.
Adaptation
One of the ways by which software adapts to new hardware, or vice versa, is the incorporation of device drivers which updates both programs and peripherals about the changes. This is the most practical way of updating your system and making sure that they work harmoniously despite the significant changes. So don’t harbor the misconception that a device driver finder is only useful during the release of new operating systems. You will definitely need this tool when changes occur in your system.
Microsoft has taken another step in trying to hasten the deployment of its new operating system to business all over the world.
The software giant has recently announced that it will release a software that would enable businesses to try a virtual version of Windows Vista. This would allow Microsoft’s corporate clients to see if the OS would work without any hiccup with the applications that they are using.
Holding Their Horses
Both small and big companies alike have been hesitant in discarding their old OS for Vista. Despite the fact that Microsoft’s latest offering has already been out for about five months already, many are still worried that they might just end up reverting back to their original operating system due to compatibility problems.
Microsoft has been addressing the problem by issuing updates, patches, and Vista drivers regularly. Software and hardware manufacturers are also doing their share by releasing new drivers for their old products. Despite these developments, many still harbor the misconception (or is it) that a number of their programs would not work on the new OS.
Painless Solution
Device driver finders on the Internet are also allaying compatibility worries by providing an instant and lasting solution to the dilemma. Many are resorting to these problem solvers instead of manually searching and installing the needed drivers. While many have successfully tracked down the needed updates and installed them to their systems without a glitch, a similar number of computer users have unfortunately encountered a frustrating experience in getting their hands dirty on the task. Many often download the wrong sets of drivers, causing more problems to their already troubled PC. Device driver finders eliminate the hassle of having to find and install the necessary updates or drivers by doing all these automatically.
The Real Problem
While IT managers hailed the release of the Virtual Hard Drive (VHD) Test Drive, critics noted that the program only answered the issue of deployment and hasn’t answered the problem regarding hardware and software compatibility. If this is true, them Microsoft has again failed in its effort to try to shorten their corporate clients’ timetable in shifting to Vista. Many businesses have professed that deployment is not the problem, but compatibility. Indeed, it would be a nightmare for them to deal with a software that wouldn’t work with the ones that they’re already using.
Aside from the release of the VHD, Microsoft has also announced that it would roll out its Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (MDOP) next month with a new feature that would enable IT managers to identify desktop errors and easily implement the fix or solution to all the units that they are overseeing.
Inevitable
Many companies are expected to take the shift by the end of the year. Microsoft said that the average time for businesses to adopt a new OS after its release is between 12-18 months. It would then seem that Bill Gates is right on track in virtually taking over thousands of corporations around the globe without acquiring a single stock in any of them.
Still complaining that your PC isn’t fast enough?
Your pleas for more computing speed and muscle might be justified if your computer is being powered by an Intel Celeron processor. However, if you’re unit has a dual core chip, chances are is that you won’t be pulling your hair out of frustration whenever you’re loading or running an application no matter how big it is.
Gone are the days when chipmakers are lagging behind software producers in coming up with the best product. Before the advent of multiple core processors, programs often sip the life out of computers. Image or video-editing software usually makes the latest PC look like a has-been. Today, dual or quad core computers treat such power-hungry applications like they’re just DOS-based programs.
Sky’s the Limit
If you’re going to listen to Intel or AMD, there seems to be no limit as to the number of cores that a chip could have. Soon, there will be no program that’s too heavy enough for processors to load or run. Microsoft’s latest OS is currently flexing the muscles of the two leading chipmakers’ products. However, many believe that Vista’s warning regarding system requirements would already become inconsequential once quad or multiple core PCs start to roll out in the market and replace the single and dual core chips that are currently considered as industry standards.
Chip producers are currently making their counterparts in the software industry eat dust. By late this year or early next year, there will be no application that’s big or complicated enough for any processor. A few years ago, software makers were complaining that the available processors are just not powerful enough in order to fully exploit the potentials and capabilities of their products. At present, Intel and AMD are now the ones that are complaining that program authors are not taking advantage of the power or features of the latest processors. Many programs are still being written for single core chips.
The Turtle Wakes Up
The laggard pace at which software makers are trying to exploit the new progress in chip design was the topic in the recently concluded Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) in Los Angeles. Application authors now admit that they may have been slow in redesigning their products in order to fully exploit the power of the latest processors.
One of the interesting notes or tidbits that were floated in the conference was the need for the next Windows program to be architecturally different from its present design. Microsoft’s Ty Carlson admitted that Vista is not designed to take advantage of the 16 or more cores or threads that would soon be the industry standard. He further lamented that while Vista is already lagging behind in the race to keep up with the developments in the chip-making business, other applications fare unforgivably worse.
Vista Shortcoming
I’m sure that many would be elated by the news that the next Microsoft OS would already be able to flex all the muscles of the latest multiple core processors from Intel and AMD. However, I’m also certain that many Vista users would start to ponder if their decision to shift to Vista was a wise investment or not. I’m not sure if the news would dampen Vista sales since some might entertain the thought of delaying their migration from XP and just wait for the new Windows to be released.
I’m currently happy with Vista. However, I would definitely want an OS that could fully exploit the capabilities of the processor that I’m using. I don’t mind going through the installation process of a Microsoft OS again, especially since device driver finders make the transition easy and headache-free. As long as I’ll be getting my money’s worth, I definitely wouldn’t mind spending for a new OS or a new unit.
This Vista woe doesn’t concern any hole or flawed programming. In fact, Microsoft is not the one to blame on this dilemma.
Thousands of PC buyers who were given the free option of upgrading to Vista are up in arms due to the unreasonable delay of the delivery of their upgrade disc. Many computer manufacturers offered a promo prior to the release of Windows Vista that would allow buyers to avail of the new OS at no extra charge. All they had to do after the release date of the new OS was to just key in their Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity number that came along with the laptop or desktop to a Web site that will be made for the purpose.
Duped?
Buyers are complaining of ridiculously long paperwork that is needed for the processing of their requests. They also lament the long holding or waiting time whenever they try to contact the vendor or the manufacturer. Among the PC makers that are involved in the flop include Dell, HP, Acer, Toshiba, Fujitsu, and Gateway.
I could understand the frustration that the buyers of the said PC brands are feeling right now. A commitment is a commitment. However, I think the delay is also a blessing in disguise, especially for the first time buyers. As you may have already read in many newspapers and online dailies, many Vista users encountered numerous problems with the new OS. Some needed to reformat their hard drive and re-install Vista. For those who had a more frustrating experience, they even abandoned the new application altogether and shifted back to XP.
Necessary Risk
You have to be ready before you put that new OS into your system. Some say that it’s practically a risk to install Vista into your PC. I must say that I would’ve probably agreed with that statement had it been made during the first 3 weeks of Vista’s release. However, Microsoft and majority of the hardware and software makers are steadily building up their databases of patches. Many of them have already released the necessary updates.
Be Proactive
While Microsoft has committed to expedite the release of the necessary patches, users should not rely solely on this promise or undertaking. They should also take steps in ensuring that pre-Vista components and applications would work without a glitch on the new OS. This shouldn’t be a problem already since there are device driver finders on the Web that could search and install the necessary drivers for your system, such as RadarSync.
I don’t fully agree with the claim or saying that installing Vista on your computer is a risk. Of course, you will definitely be facing risks or problems. However, that is just normal in any OS shift or transition. The solution is not to junk the new program altogether. Rather, what users should do is ensure that their PC is ready for the change and create a backup plan. Vista can be the next best thing since DOS (just kidding) if you’ve prepared yourself and your unit for it.
Are you prepared for Vista?
I know the question already sounds passé. I may have even raised some eyebrows by asking that question. However, I could give you several reasons why that query is still relevant.
For one thing, not everybody has jumped ship. Many are still using Windows XP or OS X. There are still millions out there who believe that they haven’t squeezed their money’s worth out of Microsoft’s previous operating system yet. As for the others who are already fed up with XP, they are still reluctant to try the new OS for fear that they would be buying something that is still raw.
The Checklist
I’ve already emphasized on my previous posts that you should think twice in installing Vista in your PC if it’s being powered by an antiquated processor. Don’t expect things to go smoothly if your computer is being powered by an Intel Celeron chip. Your Vista experience will surely be a disappointment if you’ll dare your processor to take on the Herculean task of running the new OS. Needless to say, you need to have the latest processor in order to fully enjoy the features and functions of Microsoft’s latest offering.
Compatible
Having the latest machine is not enough to ensure that your Vista experience would be pleasant. Being a new product, Vista might exhibit difficulties in recognizing certain components, as well as programs. Although software and hardware manufacturers are already making products especially for the new OS, there are thousands of old, for-XP programs that are still being used by millions of users. Their makers can’t just phase them out in a snap of a finger. What they could do though, is extend their products’ life by releasing device drivers and other updates which would enable them to run or function on the new OS.
Vista Hardware
It has been months now since Vista debuted around the globe. It’s not surprising then to see HP, Dell, Compaq, IBM, Acer, and other notebook and desktop manufacturers coming up with models that are especially made for Microsoft’s new operating system. These machines are supposed to fully utilize or maximize the potentials of Vista. They even prominently bear the “Vista-Ready” seal which assures users that they have the best unit as far as running the OS is concerned.
A More Practical Solution
Many rushed to purchase notebooks that bear the reassuring logo. Majority of those who opted for a new laptop had a Sempron or Celeron-powered machine. There were also some who owned Pentium M-powered units that opted to buy a newer model instead of upgrading their existing unit. This might seem wasteful. But considering that upgrading a laptop can be very costly, purchasing a new one would now seem to be a more practical move than introducing enhancements to an old unit.
While there are some ways by which you could inject steroids on that old PC of yours, chances are is that the enhancements won’t be able to handle the additional burden for very long. If you’re going to invest on a new OS, then you might as well also invest on a new machine.
Could you imagine life without Windows XP? I’m sure many of you are suppressing a nod, considering that most of us have grown accustomed with Vista’s predecessor. It has been the most popular and widely used operating system in the world since Windows 98. You can bet that last dollar tucked inside your left shoe that the computer you’ll be using in Singapore or Namibia is running under this OS.
Die-Hard Fans
While everybody wants to have the latest software or gadget, it would seem that many have regarded their old trusted OS as an exception. We all know that Vista’s steadily engulfing every computer on its path. Many shunned the cons with regard to price and the availability of device drivers. Indeed, it seems unlikely that Microsoft would be slashing the price of its fastest-selling software anytime soon. Compatibility problems are also fast being solved, thanks to device driver finders.
But there are still a good number of computer users who are apprehensive in retiring their old OS. Indeed, who would want to ditch a program that’s already been tried and tested. Many can easily afford Vista despite criticisms that its price tag is ridiculously exorbitant. What they can’t afford though, are disruptions due to compatibility issues. This is what’s keeping millions undecided on whether or not to shift to Vista for good.
Cashing in on XP’s Life Insurance
As the only thing that’s permanent in life is change, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Microsoft is already laying out XP’s coffin. In case you haven’t heard yet, Microsoft has already plotted the lifespan of its most successful product. It has been announced that Bill Gates’ company will stop issuing non-security updates by April 14, 2009. It’s a blow for those who are planning to stick with XP until they can’t stand its interface anymore. However, the first punch will not be fatal. The TKO would inevitably come, of course. Sources say that Microsoft would entirely stop supporting XP by 2015.
The news is saddening. However, as much as I’m a fan of XP, I don’t think that people would be able to resist the temptation of jumping to the Vista bandwagon. While Vista is experiencing some driver problems at present, XP might suffer the same fate five years from now when software and hardware manufacturers would stop producing XP-compatible products. XP’s demise is inevitable. The only question is how long will Microsoft keep its old product under life support.
The Inevitable
Don’t worry too much about the news that XP’s gravestone has already been carved. I’m sure you’ve already anticipated that. And at the rate AMD and Intel are churning out processors, I’m sure that you’ll harbor the sentiment that your new PC’s muscles will be wasted on a lightweight OS.
It’s ironic that XP would soon be suffering from compatibility dilemmas. I guess this situation can be likened to the human aging process. A baby’s dependent on everything during his early age. It then grows up to be productive and independent. As it gets older though, it again needs assistance. Sounds like just one of your old computer applications, right?
The Internet has become a very hostile place since its inception. It was probably one of the most secured networks before when the military was its sole client. Today, anybody with a PC and a modem could travel into the virtual world and do practically whatever he wants.
Walking around cyberspace without protection is like strolling around New York City at night without a companion. You’re bound to meet some undesirable elements that could definitely harm you. Surfing the Web then, without an antivirus or anti-spyware program, is reckless or even suicidal.
Hole-Ridden Pocket
One of the reasons why some people dare to connect to the Internet without adequate protection is due the prohibitive costs of security suites. Buying and maintaining a computer is not cheap. You might think that your problem’s already solved after you’ve bought the hardware. Well, think again. Your dilemma has just actually started. Depending on the software that you need, you’ll probably end up spending more on applications than on your brand new computer.
If you’re going to purchase a new computer, it is advisable to choose a package or unit that already has a pre-installed operating system. This could save you about a hundred dollars or more. However, you won’t usually get a copy of the software. That’s going to be a problem when the time comes that you have to reformat your system.
Less Than a Penny
Stacking up your computer with all the necessary software, especially those that pertain to the security of your system, need not be expensive. There are many freeware on the Internet that could take the place of expensive applications. They’re not as neat or as effective as the commercial ones, but they do get the job done.
Take for example SpyCatcher Express. It’s a freeware designed to sift out spyware from your computer. It’s not a mediocre security program, mind you. In fact, it can even rival Symantec or McAfee. Unlike other free anti-spyware applications, this program offers real-time protection. This means that you’re computer will be getting continuous protection from various types of malware.
Of course, a computer cannot live on security software alone. Many of today’s systems are primarily built for entertainment. A PC without a multimedia player or image viewer is a dull and practically useless machine.
Buying multimedia software can be a financially-harrowing experience. You’ll spend a fortune on an image viewer alone. Although Windows XP already has one, it has very limited features. You’ll definitely be constrained to buy a third-party software in order to be able to edit the images that you’re viewing.
If you’re running on a tight budget, then you might want to try Photozig Album Express. This program definitely gives you a wider latitude than Windows Fax and Picture Viewer or Paint as far as editing pictures is concerned.
Worth Every Penny
There are many free software on the Internet which can be viable alternatives to those that are being sold in the market. However, be careful in relying solely on freeware. There’s a reason why they are free, and there’s definitely a reason why some software have price tags on them. As a rule, it’s wise to spend on security suites or system tools, such as device driver finders or registry cleaners. Investing in these types of applications can definitely do wonders to your system, so don’t zip your pocket when it comes to these programs.
It’s been more than three months already since Microsoft released the most talked-about and sought-after program of the year, but many are still hesitant in ditching their old operating system for Windows Vista. Many still fear that they might encounter compatibility problems, especially with regard to the use of old programs.
Their worries are not exactly unfounded. In fact, many of those who rushed to buy the new OS grumbled that some of their hardware and software refused to cooperate with Vista. While various Vista drivers were already available as early as December of last year, many of them were not approved by Microsoft. Hence, they became virtually useless.
The More Obvious Problem
Now that Microsoft and the various software and hardware makers have already released the necessary drivers and other updates that would ensure Windows Vista’s commanding hold in the operating system market, there would seem to be no reason anymore for PC users to further delay their shift. Indeed, compatibility complaints are steadily ebbing out. However, a formidable obstacle still stands in the way between Vista and the rest of us.
Bill Gates’ company has not concealed the fact that it would take a lot of PC muscle to be able to run their new product. A PC user is in no position to aspire for the new OS if his computer is running on a Celeron processor. He’s also probably looking at the prospect of waiting for several minutes before his applications would run if his computer only has 256MB of RAM.
The Weaker Machine?
It’s already an established fact that laptops are not as powerful as desktops even if their specs are essentially the same. Hence, it is not surprising why many notebook owners are quite hesitant in junking Windows XP for Vista. Logic dictates that Vista would definitely magnify the shortcomings of portable PCs. Surprisingly though, experts claim this logic is flawed. Many insist that Windows Vista will bring out the rabbit in the laptop, and not the turtle as everybody is expecting.
Pro Laptop
Vista was designed not only to take full advantage of the most powerful processor out in the market, but also to harness the full potential of the PC, especially notebooks. Microsoft is expecting the release of new-generation hybrid drives which boasts of faster data retrieval without much effort from the device. The Redmond, Washington company designed Vista’s ReadyDrive with this in mind.
Another technology which Microsoft came up with in order to bring out the best in laptops is SuperFetch. This innovation assists your system in retrieving data by remembering the programs that you frequently use. This cuts loading time significantly. It can also predict the types of programs that you’re most likely going to access on a particular time, day, or occasion.
Another Windows Vista feature that injects steroids to portable PCs is ReadyBoost. This technology allows computers to treat or utilize USB thumb drives as actual memory. This is probably the most potent feature of the new OS as far as helping systems enhance their performance or capability in hosting the former is concerned. Many laptops are in dire need of a RAM upgrade. Unfortunately, the cost is very prohibitive. On the other hand, USB drives are cheap. Many would then be able to afford the virtual upgrade of their unit’s physical memory.
Contrary to what many believe as gospel truth, Vista is not exactly a performance-hogger or a CPU glutton. Its designers also came up with features that could greatly harness the processing powers of computers, even if they don’t carry the latest Intel or AMD chip.
If you think assembling your own PC is an impossible task, think again. With the way components are being designed today, anybody with hands can build their own desktop.
Of course, the easiest task would be to hunt for a monitor. That’s a peripheral that you won’t and shouldn’t be assembling. And don’t you even dare try to learn how to create a CRT or LCD panel. Even the machines at Samsung are having a hard time making one.
The next step, and probably the most exciting one, is picking the right case for your PC. The most popular ones are the tower casings. There are various designs for tower tops. It can even be customized according to your preferences. There are also mini or micro casings. However, if you’re new to assembling, then I suggest that you try the tower tops first. It’s easy to install components in them because there’s a lot of room for your hands to maneuver. It’s also easy to open, thereby making adding or removing components convenient.
And now on to the peripherals. I guess I’ve already told you before that the mother of all PC components is the motherboard. Your computer would run without sound cards or even hard drives, but it can never come to life without a motherboard. Almost every peripheral is dependent and connected to it. There’s no hard and fast rule in picking the right motherboard. It all depends upon the processor that you like. Every processor is supported by a different chipset or motherboard. An AMD Athlon chip won’t run on motherboards that support Intel Pentium processors. So make sure that you got the right motherboard for your processor or vice versa.
With regard to processors, the general rule is to pick the latest and fastest one. However, if you’re budget conscious, then you could buy one that would fit your needs. For example, if you won’t be using your unit to play games or perform various multimedia tasks, then an Intel Celeron or AMD Sempron would already do. They’re cheaper than the Athlon or Core 2 Duo. However, if you want a lean, mean, gaming machine, then you should seriously opt for the latter two.
While modems and LAN cards are not necessarily needed in order for a computer to run, they’re basically unavoidable necessities. Almost everything is connected to the Internet. You’ll be missing out on a lot of things if you don’t have access to cyberspace. Quite frankly, your computer might be virtually useless without an Internet connection. The famous biblical verse that “no man is an island” is almost squarely applicable to this case.
Sound and video cards are not basically indispensable, too. Most motherboards already have built-in graphics and sound engines. However, if your motherboard has none, then they’re definitely must-haves.
I know that I’ve said a while ago that your computer could still come to life without a hard drive. It would be virtually in a comatose state without this primary storage device. Windows won’t run on a VCD or DVD disk. While you could use DOS, you’re computer won’t be able to do much when running on it. Pick a hard drive that has a large capacity and a fast RPM as well. Seagate and Maxtor are among the famous and most trusted brands in the storage industry.
Optical drives are a must, too. You won’t be able to install applications without them. Gone are the days when installation media are in the form of floppy disks. VCDs and DVDs are the ones being used today.
The tools that you need to be able to assemble a PC are not that hard to use. If you’re familiar with a screwdriver, then you have nothing to worry about. Most of the components come with an installation manual, so it’s very unlikely that you’ll be clueless in your undertaking. Don’t lose the installation disks that come along with the package. They contain the device drivers which ensure that the peripheral would run or work with the OS. In case you lost them, don’t fret. Just look for a device driver finder on the Internet and install the applications that it recommends and offers.
What would life be without device drivers?
I wouldn’t be surprised if many PC users are not aware what device drivers are for. It’s easy to miss them considering that they’re just tiny specks in the gamut of files that make up an application. One could easily make the conclusion that his program won’t even suffer a minor hiccup without it.
But for those who frequently connect various types of hardware to their laptops or desktops, they have an idea on how vital device drivers are in making sure that both computer and peripheral work harmoniously together.
I must admit though, that there are times when you don’t even need to rip the packaging off the installation CDs of your digital camera or sound box. These optical media contain applications which facilitate the connection or communication between the gadget and the PC. Of course, some of the programs or files included in the installation CDs are device drivers.
I’m sure you’re familiar with the term “Plug and Play”. These words were non-existent during the time of DOS. Although the previous version of Windows claimed a certain degree of ease as far as introducing peripherals is concerned, many users still found it difficult to make a new device work in their PC. That changed when Windows XP was released. I remember the time when I first installed it. I was so worried that some of my computer’s components won’t work since I already lost their installation discs. Surprisingly, XP recognized all of them, including my very ancient and problematic modem.
Software and hardware got complicated since then. Today, it’s not enough that you have the right device driver in order to ensure that it would work with your OS smoothly. You also have to have the latest version thereof.
I’m sure you’re aware that almost all programs get updated even long after their release. It’s not that the applications of old are more stable and well-written than those of today. I’m sure the software that we’ve used more than a decade ago were far from being perfect as far as compatibility or security is concerned. However, we don’t get prompted by the manufacturer of the program back then to update or upgrade to the latest version because it was difficult and impractical. Remember that nobody had Internet access more than a decade ago. Updating or distributing patches then would’ve been a logistical nightmare for software makers. Everything changed since the Internet came along, especially during the last 5 years when bandwidths increased exponentially.
Almost all programs need updating at one time or another. These updates usually come in the form of a device driver. Remember that drivers facilitate the connection or communication of a software or hardware with the OS. As all operating systems continuously evolve, so should the programs or peripherals that run on it. It’s the cheapest and most practical way of changing or upgrading your component. Without these drivers, you might need to constantly change your hardware and software in order to ensure that it would work seamlessly with your OS. Needless to say, that would just be a complete waste of time, money, and effort.
Next Posts Previous Posts
